Paragraphs form the basis of all formal written communications. A solidly written paragraph is fluid, manageable in size and to-the-point.
Here are 4 tips to help make your paragraphs more appealing:
Get the basics right
- A basic paragraph structure is composed of the topic sentence, three or four supporting sentences and a closing sentence.
- Every paragraph MUST keep to a single topic or thought.
- Paragraphs should be reasonable in size, and must be fluid and easily comprehensible.
- The best way to create coherence and fluidity in your paragraph is to paint a verbal picture.
- Think your topic through and explain it in a way that takes the reader on an imaginary journey. Include relevant details only and don’t leave out important facts and figures.
- Elaborate on the topic under discussion but don’t turn it into a lengthy monologue.
- Bridge words are used to connect two paragraphs and create lucidity.
- Bridge words appear both in the end sentence of a paragraph and the first sentence of the next paragraph.
- They carry over the idea shared in one paragraph to the next without creating any discrepancy. E.g. One paragraph ends with the sentence: ‘these changes will make a healthy work environment’. The next paragraph then begins with, ‘Decentralisation will develop employee interaction and the work environment will become more vibrant’.
- A good way to support an idea or topic is to review its similarities and differences with other related ideas or phenomenon.
- Contrasts and similarities help link sentences together to create smooth logical connections that in turn create flow in the paragraph.
- Do not contradict ideas presented in the same paragraph. It will make your paragraph appear disjointed and unclear.
